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So what are people's opinions on corporal punishment (for kids)? [/b]
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I think corporal punishment is wrong. However, I respect a parent's right to raise their children the way they see fit, to some extent. But we all have to do what we think is right, as long as it doesn't cross the line to abuse.
My child was a handful as soon as he could walk, and has always been a challenge. But I made a committment to not go what I feel is the easy route and spank. So far, there have been times that it was tough not to, but my child has never been spanked. And guess what? He's an extremely kind and caring child, who listens as well as any 3 yr old. Sure, he still tests me, but he knows there will be consequences of some type for any bad behavior.
IMO, spanking teaches a child that you solve things by hitting. That is the message that a child gets. They don't have the ability to think through it and reason. This is the logic they see. Guess what they are going to do when they are having a problem sharing a toy with another child?
Yes, it is more difficult and takes more creativity, but it can be done. Some techniques that we have used are time-outs (we put him in his room, although some use a chair for the child to sit it, for one minute per year); taking away favorite toys for certain behaviors; but the most effective technique of all is lots of positive comments when he makes the right choice.
This all brings me back to my other point in the first part of my post... "as long as it doesn't cross the line to abuse". There is a fine line here between spanking and abuse. Why even get close to it? Also, the times you will be spanking, you will probably be angry anyway. No one thinks too clearly when we're angry.
Also, in all the parenting books I've read, and pediatricians I've talked to, I have yet to hear the advice that you should spank your child.